Social media has been reacting after South Africa edged England 16-15 in a gripping second semi-final at Stade de France.
The reigning champions were never in front until a long-range penalty from replacement Handre Pollard with just two minutes left on the clock.
Nigel Owens wrote: “that was a gripping semi final. Well done both teams a great game.” before adding that England were “very unlucky not to win that.”
Matt Giteau commented: “I don’t know how they do it but they continue to win the big ones.. congrats South Africa.”
2003 World Cup winner Lewis Moody wrote: “Clinical kick from pollard under pressure. Ruthless decisions from SA coaches, that paid dividends.”
Chris Robshaw said: ‘Truly gutted for @EnglandRugby thought they had done enough to close out the game. They left it all out there, proud of them. Fair play to Pollard that was some kick under the pressure.”
Former England captain Will Carling added: “Sport can be so bloody cruel ! Devastating for those England players. So close. They shocked everyone and nearly got over the line …….and I for one was proud of them.”
Andy Goode added: “Whatever you think that was heroic from England, congrats to South Africa but tonight we should be proud to be English.”
Lawrence Dallaglio said: “So proud of that effort by every England player. Earned a huge amount of respect for pushing the world champions so close.”
Sonny Bill Williams wrote: “@EnglandRugby played the perfect game for 70 minutes. Lawes, Earl, Itoje, Farrel were all class. The @Springboks just found the way to win, like all great teams do (I thought the bench was the difference). Looking forward to the big dance next week! #RWC2023“
“Cost them the game” – Four players who underperformed for England in semi-final
We take at four players who weren’t able to deliver their best performances as England fell to a narrow defeat to South Africa in the World Cup semi-final.
#1. Manu Tuilagi
Guardian 5/10: “ Penalty against for pushing after England had done so well to stop South Africa maul but tackled hard as he always does.”
Telegraph 6/10: “Barely used as an attacking weapon but filled his role in keeping the Springbok midfield honest. One silly penalty for grabbing Reinach nearly proved costly.”
Planet Rugby 6/10: ” Made some decent hits in midfield but we understandably didn’t see much of him with ball in hand.”